The 1.4-petrol turbo engine delivers 70Nm more torque which can all be found at the low end of the rev band thanks to the turbo

I would describe the Swift Sport as highly spirited, rather than outright fast.

But ’twas always thus. If Suzuki entered a p***ing competition with the other hot superminis by cranking up the bhp, it would alienate a large portion of its loyal fanbase.

And the Sport is a blast to drive.

The 1.4-petrol turbo engine (lifted from the Vitara S) is a downsize from the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre from before, but it delivers 70Nm more torque which can all be found at the low end of the rev band thanks to the turbo.

It’s also 80kg lighter than the previous model.

The engine lights up playfully and hustles the Swift along with an infectious enthusiasm, which is complemented by a tight chassis and the same Monroe suspension system from the old model, which has been tweaked to reduce body roll.

STROP GEAR

HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH

Ultimate machine

BMW has launched this limited edition HP4 Race version. Built almost entirely from carbon fibre and using some of the best components available on the market today, the HP4 Race redefines performance motorcycling

AS if the standard BMW S1000RR wasn’t enough, BMW has launched a limited-edition HP4 Race version.

Built almost entirely from carbon fibre and using some of the best components available, it redefines performance motorcycling.

We spent a day with the bike at Almeria race track in Spain.

Regardless of your motorcycling taste, one quick look over the HP4 Race is all it takes to be impressed.

Everything from the Suter swingarm through to the carbon fibre wheels and the FGR forks screams factory race bike.

Built in a run of just 750, the HP4 Race has already secured its place in the fantasy garage of everyone that’s seen it.

The numbers speak for themselves – it weighs just 171kg and pounds an eye-watering 215 bhp through the rear tyre.

This bike has the best power-to-weight ratio of any bike we’ve ridden.

Our track sessions couldn’t have been any better – blazing sunshine on an empty Spanish racetrack and fresh slicks meant we would get the chance to enjoy everything that the bike had to offer.